Pier 39 is a waterfront shopping and entertainment complex at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco

Pier 39 is a wooden pier that extends into San Francisco Bay, home to shops, restaurants, sea lions, and views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It sits at the end of Beach Street in the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood. The pier is free to walk on — you pay only for food, merchandise, or attractions you choose to visit.

The pier opened in 1978 and has become one of San Francisco's most visited destinations. Most of the space is open-air, so weather and crowds vary by season. The sea lions that haul out on the docks at the west end of the pier are the main draw for many visitors and are not fed or managed by the pier — they come and go on their own.

Key Takeaways

  • Pier 39 is free to enter and walk around, but you will pay for restaurants, shops, and paid attractions like the Aquarium of the Bay.
  • The pier is busiest on weekends and during summer months, so weekday mornings tend to be less crowded.
  • Parking is available in nearby garages and lots, though rates are high during peak hours and you may wait for a spot.
  • The sea lions gather on the docks at the west end of the pier and can be viewed from the public walkway at no cost.
  • Restrooms, ATMs, and first aid are available throughout the pier, and most restaurants and shops accept credit cards.

Getting to Pier 39 and parking options

Pier 39 is located at Beach Street and the Embarcadero in San Francisco. If you drive, several parking garages are within walking distance: the Fisherman's Wharf Garage (250 Beach Street), the Pier 39 Garage (2 Stockton Street), and the Embarcadero Center Garage are the closest. Parking rates typically run $5 to $8 per hour during off-peak times and $10 to $15 per hour during peak hours, though rates vary by garage and time of day.

Public transit is often faster than driving. The F-line historic streetcar runs along the Embarcadero and stops near Pier 39. Cable cars (Powell-Market and Powell-Hyde lines) stop several blocks away. BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) has a station at Embarcadero, a 10-minute walk from the pier. If you take transit, you avoid parking fees and the time spent looking for a spot.

What to expect when you arrive

The pier is open year-round from early morning until evening or night, depending on the season and individual business hours. Summer months (June through August) bring the largest crowds, especially on weekends. Weekday mornings, particularly in fall and winter, are quieter. The pier is outdoors and exposed to wind and fog, so bring a jacket even on days that seem warm inland.

The main walkway is wide and paved, but it can be congested during peak hours. Strollers and wheelchairs can navigate the pier, though narrow shop entrances and crowds may slow movement. The pier has benches and viewing areas where you can sit and watch the water or the sea lions without shopping or eating.

Shops, restaurants, and attractions

Pier 39 has roughly 100 shops and restaurants spread across two levels. Shops sell souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and gifts. Restaurants range from casual fast-food stands to sit-down seafood restaurants. Most major chains are represented, along with some local businesses. Prices are higher than you would pay elsewhere in the city — expect to pay $15 to $25 for a casual meal and $30 to $60 per person at full-service restaurants.

The Aquarium of the Bay is the main paid attraction on the pier. It features local marine life and costs around $30 for adults (prices vary by age and season). The sea lions at the west end of the pier are free to view from the public walkway. Street performers and musicians play throughout the pier, and tips are optional.

The sea lions and wildlife viewing

The sea lions haul out on the docks at the west end of Pier 39, usually in groups ranging from a few dozen to several hundred depending on the season. They are wild animals and are not fed, trained, or managed by the pier. They come and go based on food availability in the bay and breeding cycles. Winter months (November through May) tend to have larger numbers on the docks.

The viewing area is a public walkway with railings, and you can photograph and observe the sea lions from there. They are loud, especially during breeding season, and the smell can be strong. The pier does not restrict viewing, and no ticket is required. If the sea lions are not present on the docks, they may be in the water or elsewhere in the bay.

Facilities and services on the pier

Restrooms are located throughout Pier 39 and are generally clean and well-maintained. ATMs are available near the main entrance and in various shops. First aid stations are staffed by trained personnel, and security is present throughout the pier. Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, though some smaller vendors may be cash-only.

The pier has benches, trash cans, and recycling bins. Water fountains are available, though you may want to bring your own water bottle. The pier is dog-friendly on leash, though some shops and restaurants have their own pet policies. Smoking is not permitted on the pier.

Timing your visit and what to bring

Plan to spend one to three hours at Pier 39, depending on whether you shop, eat, or visit the Aquarium. If you only want to see the sea lions and walk the pier, one hour is usually enough. If you plan to eat and shop, add another hour or two. Sunset views are popular, so the pier fills up in late afternoon during clear weather.

Bring a light jacket or sweater, even in summer — the bay wind can be cold. Comfortable walking shoes are important because the pier is crowded and you will be on your feet. Sunscreen and sunglasses are useful on clear days. If you plan to photograph the sea lions or the bridge, bring a camera or may support your phone is charged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to walk on Pier 39?

No, walking on the pier is free. You only pay for food, shops, or attractions like the Aquarium of the Bay that you choose to visit.

Can I bring my own food to Pier 39?

Outside food is generally not permitted on the pier, though policies may vary. The pier has many restaurants and food stands, and prices are higher than elsewhere in the city. Bringing your own food can save money if you are willing to eat elsewhere nearby.

What time of year has the most sea lions?

Winter months, particularly November through May, typically have the largest numbers of sea lions on the docks. Summer months have fewer, though some are usually present year-round. The population changes based on breeding cycles and food availability in the bay.

Is Pier 39 crowded on weekends?

Yes, weekends are significantly busier than weekdays, especially in summer. If you prefer fewer crowds, visit on a weekday morning or during fall and winter months. Even during peak times, the pier is wide enough to move through, though shops and restaurants will have longer waits.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair to Pier 39?

Yes, the main walkway is paved and wide enough for strollers and wheelchairs. Some shop entrances are narrow, and crowds during peak hours may make movement slower. Restrooms and accessible facilities are available throughout the pier.